More On Hunts Through "Ranching For Wildlife"

Published: February - 1998

In my report last month on Ranching For Wildlife, I included some important general information that is must reading if you are thinking of taking advantage of this innovative program. In the interest of space, I won't repeat that introductory information. It's worth noting, though, that I made contact this month with the Colorado Division of Wildlife Coordinator of the program, John Seidel, who made an observation about trophy quality that is worth passing on. Seems he is of the opinion that the program excels in the production of elk and mule deer trophies, and to a lesser extent black bear trophies. He was less enthusiastic about the antelope produced by participating ranches.

In any case, if you want the chance to draw a Colorado Ranching for Wildlife permit for this coming season you should contact the Division of Wildlife now to request an application packet. The Ranching for Wildlife properties are listed in the proclamation and given a hunt code number, which must be shown on the application to enter the drawing. The Division mails each successful hunter his license, which range in price for non-residents from $150.25 for deer and antelope to $250.25 for elk and bear. The ranch itself sends the licensee a packet spelling out the rules of the ranch. To help you choose a ranch to apply for, here's a quick summary of what's available on the 11 ranches I didn't cover last month. The number preceding each ranch corresponds to the accompanying map.

1. Cross Mountain Ranches, c/o Wayne Pearson. Deer and elk on 32,000 acres of mostly mountain country in Routt County. Elevations of 10,000 feet and up. 1997 was the first year Cross Mountain Ranches has been in the Ranching For Wildlife program. It received 120 permits, some of which are used on private hunts. Rates available on request. The ranch is divided into zones, each of which is limited to 12 hunters. "We want visitors to have a quality hunt so we give them plenty of space." says Pearson, an affable Georgian who lives at the ranch during the off-season.........(continued)